Azhikkal Port
The port declared on 28 June 1881 as the nomenclature of Baliapatam’ and during year 1899 its nomenclature as amended to ‘Azhikkal. Azhikkal is a riverside minor port located at the confluence of Valapattanam River and Mattool River with the Lakshadweep Sea in Kannur District of Kerala.
At present, Azhikkal is a small harbour, Kannur Town is about 12 kms from the port site which can serve as a port town providing all supporting urban infrastructure. The development of waterway will help in de-congesting the road traffic. The port located in a basin with a rich hinterland, serves the timber and wood based industry especially Plywoods, tiles, the local fishing trade, and exports cashews, coir, ceramics, textiles, fertilisers, chemicals, tea, rice and coconut.
Infrastructure
Azhiikal Port is situated in Azhikkode Village in Kannur District. The Port Office containing double story building in which Port office is working in the ground floor and Customs and EDI facilities is in first floor of the building. Adequate numbers of Staff Quarters are available for its staff. 24 x 7 Ex-Servicemen Security Guards are deployed at Main Gate. Azhikkal Port has 226 metres of Wharf facility, and is having 4 metre draft shipping channel. 14 Numbers of Channel Marking Buoys are installed in Valapattanam River for smooth and safe navigational purposes. Port is equipped with Mobile Harbour Crane (HYDRA 825), LIEBHERR Crane LHM 180 and Reachstacker Crane for container handling during shipping operations.
In addition, as part of ISPS Code implementation, Marine CC-TV for security surveillance, High Mast Lights, 160 KVA Generator for uninterrupted power supply has been installed. Civil works i.e, construction of Compound Wall and Patrolling Pathway and 1000 Sqm warehouse for safe custody of containers during shipping operation is in progress.
Features and Importance
Strategic Location:
Azhikkal Port’s location near the river mouth makes it a vital point for inland and coastal transportation, connecting the hinterland of Kannur and nearby regions to the Arabian Sea.
Development Plans:
The port is being developed as a minor port under Kerala’s coastal infrastructure initiatives. Plans include enhancing facilities for cargo handling, improving navigation channels, and supporting tourism.
Cargo and Logistics Hub:
Azhikkal Port is expected to facilitate the movement of goods such as timber, construction materials, and agricultural produce, significantly benefiting local industries.
Tourism Potential:
The scenic location of the port, with its serene backwaters and picturesque views of the Arabian Sea, makes it an emerging spot for tourism. The nearby fishing villages add a cultural charm to the area.
Connectivity:
Azhikkal Port is well-connected by road and is close to major towns like Kannur.Kannur International Airport further enhances its accessibility for trade and tourism.
Future Prospects:
With continued investments in infrastructure, Azhikkal Port aims to become a key player in coastal shipping and regional economic growth, contributing to Kerala’s broader maritime development strategy.
Azhikkal Port combines economic potential with natural beauty, making it a significant asset for the Kannur district and the state of Kerala.